Friendship is indispensable to man for the proper function of his memory. Remembering our past, carrying it with us always, may be the necessary requirement for maintaining, as they say, the wholeness of the self. To ensure that the self doesn't shrink, to see that it holds on to its volume, memories have to be watered like potted flowers, and the watering calls for regular contact with the witnesses of the past, that is to say, with friends. They are our mirror; our memory; we ask nothing of them but that they polish the mirror from time to time so we can look at ourselves in it.
Milan Kundera emphasizes the vital role of friendship in maintaining our identity and memory. He suggests that our interactions with friends help preserve our past experiences, which are essential for the cohesion of our self. Just as plants need water to thrive, our memories require nurturing through regular contact with those who share our history. This connection prevents our sense of self from diminishing over time.
Furthermore, friends serve as reflective surfaces that allow us to view our identities more clearly. By engaging with friends, we can better understand ourselves and the memories we hold. Their presence acts as a constant reminder of our shared experiences, allowing us to maintain a fuller sense of who we are. Ultimately, the act of remembering and sharing with friends is crucial for our personal growth and stability.
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